# Closing costs

> The fees you pay at closing on top of the down payment: lender fees, the appraisal, title insurance, the closing attorney, taxes, and the first insurance and tax payments. They often add up to 2% to 5% of the price.

By David Knorr, founder of BuyWise Home. Last reviewed October 28, 2026. Web page: https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/closing-costs

## Why it matters to you

They're easy to underestimate, and they're due in cash. You can ask the seller to pay part of them with a [seller concession](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/seller-concession), often agreed after the inspection.

> Example: On a $350,000 home, 2% to 5% is $7,000 to $17,500, on top of your down payment.

## Related

- [Step 1: Am I ready to buy?](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/ready-to-buy)
- [Seller concession](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/seller-concession): Money the seller puts toward your closing costs. Also called a seller credit.
- [Closing Disclosure](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/closing-disclosure): The final terms and costs of your loan, sent three business days before closing.
- [Loan Estimate](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/loan-estimate): A standard form every lender gives you, so you can compare loans side by side.
- [Down payment](https://www.buywisehome.com/guide/glossary/down-payment): The part of the price you pay in cash. The loan covers the rest.

_General information based on the standard Georgia REALTORS® purchase contract and public guidance. Your own contract decides: read it, and ask your agent or closing attorney about anything that matters. Not legal or financial advice._